BREAKING: Tragedy in Morgan Hill — Missing Teen Marissa DiNapoli Found Dead Near Anderson Lake, Companion Named Person of Interest
MORGAN HILL, CALIFORNIA — July 3 2025 — The search for 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli ended in heartbreak after her body was found near Anderson Lake. Authorities have now identified Martin Mendoza, a man last seen with DiNapoli, as the primary person of interest in the case. The investigation has escalated as Mendoza refuses to cooperate and remains at large.
DiNapoli disappeared in late June after telling her family she would spend the night at a friend’s house. When she failed to return or respond to calls, her family reported her missing on June 30. Over the next few days, a massive search involving drones and ground teams scoured the Woodchoppers Flat Picnic Area near Anderson Lake, where her body was ultimately discovered under a bridge in dense brush on July 2. The Santa Clara County Coroner confirmed her identity on July 3.
Surveillance footage and witness accounts confirmed that DiNapoli was last seen on June 29 leaving a residence on Trail Drive with Martin Mendoza. Following her disappearance, her vehicle was found abandoned in the area. Since then, Mendoza has been designated a person of interest. Investigators describe Mendoza as uncooperative and are actively searching for him.
Mendoza is believed to be driving a white Toyota Camry registered in California, bearing license plates CW87W00 or 9PTM351. Authorities are urging anyone who has seen Mendoza or his vehicle to come forward immediately.
More than 30 investigators from multiple agencies, including the FBI, Homeland Security, Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, and the District Attorney’s Office, are collaborating on this case. Authorities have not yet released details about the cause of death but continue to investigate all leads thoroughly.
The Morgan Hill Police Department described Marissa DiNapoli as a bright and promising young woman whose life was tragically cut short. The department has vowed to pursue justice and bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding her death.
DiNapoli’s family released a statement thanking the community for support but requested privacy as they mourn their loss. They asked that no fundraising efforts be launched and instead encouraged the public to honor Marissa’s memory through shared stories and prayers.
The Morgan Hill community has been deeply affected by the tragedy. Friends and classmates have organized vigils to remember Marissa, describing her as compassionate, talented, and full of dreams. Her death has also sparked conversations about safety and the importance of community vigilance.
Law enforcement continues to seek tips from the public. Anyone with information regarding Martin Mendoza’s location or the investigation is urged to contact the Morgan Hill Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
This heartbreaking case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk close to home and the urgent need for community awareness and cooperation in protecting vulnerable individuals.
Key Points:
- Marissa DiNapoli, 18, found deceased on July 2 near Anderson Lake
- Last seen with Martin Mendoza on June 29
- Mendoza identified as person of interest; currently uncooperative and at large
- Mendoza may be driving a white Toyota Camry with CA plates CW87W00 or 9PTM351
- Multi-agency investigation ongoing, including FBI and Homeland Security involvement
- Family requests privacy and no fundraising; community mourns and demands justice